I Will Swim Next Time

Hardcover

Synopsis

"Gentle, inspiring, and important... for parents looking to quell children's fears, support their dreams, and allow them room to grow." – Kirkus Reviews

"When we went to a beach,
my tummy felt tight.
but it still felt wrong inside.

Definitely... possibly... Perhaps I'd swim – next time."

At first the big blue sea makes them feel small and scared. Then the child visits a lake and a river, and their fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow.

A wonderful book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences, with lyrical words by Emily Joof and bold, dynamic illustrations by Matilda Ruta.

Author

Emily Joof is an African-diaspora author, education expert and mother. She writes children's books and stories with a focus on inclusion and diversity which have been translated into Swedish, French and Wolof. Born in Nigeria, Emily now divides her time between the Gambia, the UK and Sweden. I Will Swim Next Time is inspired by experiences with her daughter. 

Illustrator

Matilda Ruta is an illustrator and author based in Stockholm, Sweden. She has written and illustrated many books for children, and has been nominated for the Elsa Beskow Plaque and the August Award.

Praise

'Gentle, inspiring, and important� The story offers a model for parents looking to quell children's fears, support their dreams, and allow them room to grow. Given that many swimming pools have historically excluded African American communities and that Black children face an elevated risk of drowning, a narrative that spotlights a Black family reveling in the water is especially welcome.' —Kirkus Reviews

'This quiet, gentle book perfectly encapsulates the hesitations of many children around water, by honoring their emotions and process. The lovely ink and watercolor art creates lovely watery scenes that are so inviting.' —Youth Services Book Review

'A fun and effective picture book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences.' —Midwest Book Review

'What I love is both the expressions on the characters and the art itself. This book is undoubtedly a keeper.' —School Library Journal

Product Details

ISBN: 9781782508298